Landcare Helps to Save Local Species from Extinction

Two beautiful little creatures are on the brink of extinction here in the Gunning district. Most of us would never have seen either one but their loss would make us all the poorer. That’s why local landcarers are partnering with scientists and experts to help bring back the Southern Pygmy Perch and Yellow-spotted Bell Frog to our waterways and dams. We have good reason to believe we can succeed.

The Southern Pygmy Perch has suffered from habitat loss and the spread of predators, particularly Carp, Gambusia and Redfin to the extent that we now have to create special safe refuges to ensure its survival.All photos courtesy Luke PearceFungal disease, habitat degradation and foxes have contributed to the lovely Yellow-spotted Bell Frog almost being lost to us forever. But there are glimmers of hope for a brighter future

Blakney Creek/Biala and Jerrawa Creek landcare groups are combining forces to form Gunning District Landcare, a new organisation offering help and support to all landowners, large and small, in the Gunning district. We will kick off 2016 with a series of workshops, seminars and field days focussing on how we can improve the health and resilience of our local water resources.

Protect Your Streams and Dams from Evaporation and Pollution

Great habitat for Southern Pygmy Perch. Great for people and stock too. Naturally resistant to evaporation and pollution.

Did you know that a healthy habitat for frogs and fishes is also ideal for stock and people? Dams and streams with the right shrubs, trees and water plants offer the best protection from evaporation which will be essential in El Nino years. And plants can keep waterways free of pollution. This makes for healthy stock and avoids the need to use chemicals like copper sulphate to remove algal bloom which we can expect to see during drought.

Watch out for news about Gunning District Landcare and information on how you can benefit by creating frog and fish friendly environments in coming weeks.